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From School Library Journal Grade 3-6–This attractive set offers short, engaging descriptions of: Amphibians & Reptiles, Birds, Butterflies, Fossils, Freshwater Life, Insects, Mammals, Rocks & Minerals, Sea Shells, Trees, and Wildflowers. An introduction in each volume gives background on basic overall characteristics and life cycles. Entries are grouped by habitat or types, which are identified by colorful bands at the tops of the pages. Each species is described in a paragraph, which discusses distinguishing physical features and peculiar habits. In addition, family, size, food, and distribution are noted. Each entry is accompanied by a full-color realistic drawing, with the exception of Fossils, Rocks & Minerals, and Seashells, which feature close-up color photographs. Activity pages highlight related crafts, experiments, and collecting tips. Some sample projects include building a bat box, growing a stalactite, raising caterpillars, and making seashell jewelry. The 12th volume includes an explanation of scientific classification and short biographies of natural scientists, most of whom will be unfamiliar to young readers. As the books are not numbered, it is difficult to use the cumulative index, which uses abbreviations such as "Bi" for Birds or "Fr" for Freshwater Life. Also, there is no contact information for the museums, parks, and sanctuaries listed in "Places to Visit." Nature lovers will enjoy perusing these colorful, concise entries, but report writers will have to look elsewhere for more detailed information.–Barbara Auerbach, New York City Public Schools Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Product description Book by From Booklist This set provides students with an introduction to the natural sciences. Although the publisher indicates that the interest level is grades 5-10, the layout and content would most appeal to students in grades 2-5. Colorful graphics and charts a